Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant reduced my breakouts by ~70% after 3 days of using it AM and PM! Note that timing is different for everyone. After 7 days of use, my skin felt very smooth and soft. It may take 5-14 days to see results (source) Don't give up!
How long does it take to work? You will find there are some instant results when using a product containing salicylic acid, particularly chemical toners. The skin will appear fresher looking with a healthy glow, in regards to treating any breakouts or other blemishes, you can expect to see results in 4-6 weeks.
“Once every other day is plenty, unless you are on a programme with an expert that says otherwise.” However, it is often safe to use BHA daily. Remember, too, to be mindful of the other active ingredients (such as retinols and antioxidants) in your skincare line-up.
BHAs are thought to self-neutralize after about 20 minutes, so most skincare experts advise letting it fully dry for at least 15 minutes before continuing with your regular skincare routine (i.e. essences, serums, moisturizers, spot treatments).
You don't need to wait for the BHA or AHA to absorb or dry; you can apply any other product in your routine - moisturiser, serum, eye cream, or sunscreen - immediately afterwards. Experiment with different strengths of glycolic acid or salicylic acid to see which concentration gives you the best results.
Any reactions will likely occur within a day, but could take up to two or three, so we recommend waiting a few days before full-face application. You'll want to look out for anything uncomfortable or weird like redness, bumps, or itchiness. If any of which occur, discontinue use.
Generally speaking, dermatologists say purging should be over within four to six weeks of starting a new skin care regimen. If your purge lasts longer than six weeks, consult your dermatologist.
Classic K-Beauty acids like COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid contain approximately 4% of betaine salicylate (a type of BHA) and can technically be used every day. However, it's not a good idea to start using 4% BHA every day if you've never tried a BHA before. Instead, start off by applying the product once a week.
Depending on the products you were using before, you may see an overnight improvement. Enhanced results will occur within 2–8 weeks, and will increase and be maintained over time. During the day, your moisturizer or foundation must contain an SPF 30 or greater sunscreen or you will not get the best results.
The product absorbs super quickly into the skin. After waiting about 15-20 minutes, I then move on to the next steps in my routine. The reason you want to wait before using the rest of your skincare products is that the time allows the product to work its magic and fully penetrate the skin.
Acids - The most common acids that can cause skin purging are AHA's and BHA's, which include salicylic acid, malic acid, glycolic acid, and mandelic acid.
How often should I use Paula's Choice BHA Exfoliant? You can use Paula's Choice BHA every day— exfoliating once either in the morning or evening (pick whichever is most convenient for you). Many people with stubborn clogged pores have great results using a Paula's Choice BHA exfoliant twice per day.
How long does chemical exfoliation take to work? A. If you have chosen the right exfoliant for your skin type, chemical exfoliation can show results from the very first use. You can see visible changes in your skin from 3 weeks onwards, however, regular use is necessary to maintain the results for the long run.
"Ideally the skin is smooth, supple, and uniform in color," Waldorf said. If your skin feels less bumpy, the size of your pores has been reduced, and you're noticing less marks, acne, and discoloration, your products are likely working.
So once the BHA reaches your pores, it gives your skin a deep-clean by exfoliating the pore lining and loosening clogged sebum. This process allows oil to flow out more easily (instead of becoming trapped), and softens blackheads, making them easier to extract. BHAs are also mildly antibacterial.
Yes, BHAs can cause initial skin purging, but they also happen to be the most effective way to clear and prevent acne. Not only do they exfoliate dead skin on the surface, but they also deep-clean pores, reduce excess oil, calm inflammation and fade post-acne marks.
“You'll likely see results in four to six weeks,” says Dr.
Answer: no, you do not rinse it off. Essence and serum are similar but just different in consistency, these should be applied after cleansing, toning - essence / serum then moisturizer.
Does BHA Make Skin Purge? The answer is: Maybe … for some people. Because BHA is oil-soluble, it exfoliates not only on the surface of skin, but also inside the pore lining. That kind of exfoliation can trigger a mass exodus of inflammatory substances and oil that, under certain conditions, can create more breakouts.
Skin purging typically looks like tiny red bumps on the skin that are painful to touch. They are often accompanied by whiteheads or blackheads. It can also cause your skin to become flaky. The flare ups caused by purging have a shorter lifespan than a breakout.
While AHAs love water, BHAs love oil. They can bypass the oil that clogs pores and dissolve the mix of sebum and dead skin that leads to acne, as well as stabilize the lining of the pore (which contributes to acne). BHAs clear up blackheads, whiteheads, and have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
Purging is a sign that the product is working and you should continue with the treatment as prescribed. After a few weeks of purging, your skin and acne will have noticeably improved. Breaking out is when your skin is reacting because it is sensitive to something in the new product.
It takes between 2-8 weeks for the skin to become acclimated to new skincare products, and only then can you start to see results. Initially you may notice a negative effect on your skin, such as dryness, redness and spots. This is part of the skin's natural purging process, and is completely normal.